Private
The Venetian Islands Private Tour from Venice
Overview
This private boat experience takes you across one of Italy’s most captivating landscapes, where water, light, and centuries of history come together in a way that feels both timeless and deeply authentic. At your own pace, accompanied by your private captain, you’ll explore the three most iconic islands of the Venetian Lagoon—each offering a completely different perspective on Venice.
Your journey begins in Murano, world-renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking traditions. Here, you’ll witness master artisans at work, shaping molten glass into intricate pieces using techniques that have been passed down through generations. It’s a rare glimpse into a living craft that continues to define the island today.
From here, continue on to Burano, perhaps the most vibrant and joyful corner of the lagoon. Its brightly painted houses line the canals in a kaleidoscope of color, while daily life unfolds much as it always has—fishermen at work, locals chatting along the water, and lace-making traditions that have brought prosperity to the island for centuries. It’s a place that feels both lively and unmistakably real.
Your final stop is Torcello, the oldest of the lagoon settlements and often referred to as the “Mother of Venice.” Quiet, green, and almost untouched by time, it offers a striking contrast to the energy of Burano. Here, you’ll discover the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639 and adorned with remarkable Byzantine mosaics—one of the most important and ancient monuments in the Venetian Lagoon.
Throughout the day, what defines this experience is not just where you go, but how you move—by private boat, away from rigid schedules and crowded group tours, with the freedom to take in the lagoon at a slower, more meaningful pace.
At the end of your journey, you’ll return comfortably to Venice, with drop-off at your hotel or cruise port.
Duration
4 hours
Starting From
EUR 450
Per person for two travelers
Tailored to your departure and group.
Join us on an excursion to explore the three most famous islands of the Venetian Lagoon, which is an extremely relaxing tour that combines different aspects of Venice. This tour offers natural beauty, craftsmanship, a genuine fisherman village atmosphere, and a glimpse into the city's earliest days. The first island, Murano, is renowned for its glassmaking. It is a traditional activity that still preserves ancient techniques.
- Tour Style
- Private
- Meeting Point
- Veneto
Gallery
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Private English-speaking guide
- Transfers from/to the pier to the center
- Islands of Venice by private boat
What's Not Included
- Entrance fees
- Food and beverages not mentioned in the program
- Gratuities of any type
Traveler Reviews
Emily and David DavisonMy husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.
Ron and Deb CrosbyDear Guiseppe and Jesse,
We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.
Hotels
1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.
2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.
3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.
Wine Tour
Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!
The various wineries we visited on tour:
Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.
Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.
Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.
Leon and MicheleThe trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.
Bob & SandyJesse & Giuseppe,
Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.
Location
Italy Venice
Venice and beyond
4 hours through Italy, with every stop chosen by the people who live here.
Where we meet
Veneto
Nearby Experiences
Venice Rialto Market Walk
Private Half Day Tour of Venice with St. Mark's & the Doge's Palace
Learn to be a Gondolier
The Artisans of Venice
Venice in a Day Shore Excursion
Northern Italy including Lake Garda, Verona, Bologna & Venice Harvest 2026
Private Day Trip to the Dolomites
Venice Weekend for Lovers
Venice off the Beaten Path
Carnival Mask Making and Dinner in Venice with Local Hosts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?
Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.
Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?
Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.
How do we start planning?
Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.
When should we book?
The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.
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